Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Calories per Serving: 300 kcal
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
16 large pasta shells
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (or 1/2 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
1 cup marinara sauce
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the Pasta Shells: Boil the pasta shells according to package instructions until they’re al dente. Drain, rinse with cool water, and set aside.
Prepare the Filling: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Fill the Shells: Using a spoon, fill each shell with a generous amount of the spinach-ricotta mixture.
Layer the Sauce: Spread half of the marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of a baking dish. Place the stuffed shells in a single layer in the dish.
Top with Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells, and sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan (if using) over the top.
Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and enjoy!
Tips
Make it Creamier: Add 1/4 cup of heavy cream or more ricotta for an extra creamy filling.
Add Protein: Stir in cooked ground chicken or sausage to the filling if you’d like more protein.